A delegation of 40 Buddhist Monks from Sri Lanka is visiting Pakistan from May 29 on the invitation of the government for celebrating the Vesak festival in Pakistan.

The delegation is scheduled to arrive Islamabad on May 29 for four days visit, an official of National History and Literary Heritage Division told APP here on Wednesday. He said that the members of the delegation will visit Holy places of Buddhists and also perform their religious rituals.

Vesak festival also known as Buddha Purnima (Full moon) and Buddha Day is holiday observed traditionally by Buddhist on different days in all Buddhist countries of Asia and other places all over the world. Vesak day is celebrated to commemorate events of significance to Buddhist of all traditions; the birth, enlightenment and the passing away of Gautama Buddha.

The most splendid chapter of the history of Pakistan is the world famous “the Buddhist Art of Gandhara” flourished from 1st century B.C.E to 5th century C.E. There are innumerable remains of the Buddhist monasteries and stupas found in various parts of the whole Ghandhara region.

Being a great center of Buddhism and a place pilgrimage for the Buddhist throughout the world since many centuries, the Gandhara is also known as second homeland of Buddhism. Being custodian of the Buddhist heritage of Gandhara, the Government of Pakistan is equally participating and celebrating Vesak festival.

In this connection, some remains of the Gandhara Holy Relics of Lord Buddha has been sent to Sri Lanka for exhibition, for the Buddhist devotees as part of celebrations of the Vesak festival.

(Daily Times)